Beaches
The best beaches in Dubai, from Kite Beach to Al Mamzar
Dubai has long, free city beaches with views of skyscrapers and the Burj Al Arab. These are the beaches worth a whole day, when to go, and the hotels with sand of their own.
This page contains affiliate links. If you book through them, Picolo earns a commission at no extra cost to you. Our picks are made independently by our editors.
Late afternoon on Kite Beach. The heat has eased a little, kites hang over the water and the Burj Al Arab stands in silhouette further down the sand. People play football, joggers pass on the long track behind the beach, and nobody has paid to be here.
Dubai is not a classic beach town, but its public beaches are wide, clean and free, and the water of the Gulf is warm for most of the year. We have picked the beaches worth a full day, plus the hotels that come with a beach of their own.
Short answer: which beaches in Dubai are best?
Kite Beach is the best all-rounder, with Burj Al Arab views and plenty to do. JBR Beach suits anyone staying by the Marina, La Mer is best for families and Al Mamzar has the calmest lagoons. The best time to go is November to March.
Best all-rounder: Kite Beach
Best for views: Sunset Beach, Umm Suqeim
Best near the Marina: JBR Beach
Best for families: La Mer
Best for calm water: Al Mamzar Beach Park
Jumeirah Al Qasr
Jumeirah Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah.
Umm Suqeim: Kite Beach and Sunset Beach
Kite Beach is long and wide, with cafes, outdoor gym equipment and a dedicated zone for kitesurfers. It is free, with showers and toilets along the promenade.
Just south lies Sunset Beach at Umm Suqeim, the classic spot for photos of the Burj Al Arab, especially at dusk. It is quieter than Kite Beach. Read about the Burj Al Arab.
Jumeirah Al Qasr: a private beach at Madinat Jumeirah
Al Qasr is built like a summer palace within Madinat Jumeirah, with canals, abras, the traditional wooden boats, and a long private beach right beside the Burj Al Arab. Guests can use several pools and the restaurants across the resort. A good pick if you want beach and buzz without leaving the hotel.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Jumeirah Al Qasr
JBR and the Marina: a beach among the towers
JBR Beach sits in front of the Jumeirah Beach Residence towers, with The Walk and its restaurants right behind the sand. It is a lively city beach with water sports and views of Ain Dubai, the observation wheel on Bluewaters Island.
It works well if you are staying by the Marina and want a swim and dinner in the same place. It gets busy at weekends, which in Dubai fall on Saturday and Sunday.
One&Only The Palm
One&Only The Palm from above, with its beach.
Palm Jumeirah: hotel beaches on the island
The man-made Palm Jumeirah is mostly private hotel beaches, but West Beach has public stretches, a promenade and beach clubs with sunsets over the bay.
Many visitors choose the Palm for a beach hotel with calm water inside the breakwater. Distances are long, so plan on taxis.
One&Only The Palm: a quiet beach on the west side
One&Only The Palm sits on the western side of the island, with low white buildings, gardens and a beach that faces Dubai Marina across the water. It is smaller and calmer than the big Palm resorts. Choose it for peace and a private beach.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at One&Only The Palm
Night swimming: after the sun goes down
In summer it is too hot to lie on the sand at midday, so Dubai has dedicated night-swimming beaches with floodlights and lifeguards after dark, including stretches at Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim.
From June to September this is the most comfortable way to swim, with warm water and air that has finally eased. Check opening hours and which beaches are open at night before you go, as they can change from season to season.
La Mer and Al Mamzar: for families
La Mer in Jumeirah 1 is a beachfront district of cafes, shops and play areas, with a water park next door. The water is shallow and shade and food are easy to find.
Al Mamzar Beach Park lies at the northern edge of Dubai near Sharjah, with several lagoons and lawns. A small entry fee buys calmer water and more space than the central beaches. Read our guide to Dubai with kids.
When to go
November to March: pleasantly warm, and the best time for long beach days.
Summer: June to September is extremely hot and humid. Swim early in the morning or after sunset.
Dress and rules: swimwear is fine on the beach, but cover up on the promenade and in malls.
Shade: many public beaches have little shade. Rent a parasol or bring your own.
Frequently asked questions about Dubai's beaches
What is the best beach in Dubai?
Kite Beach is the best all-round choice, with Burj Al Arab views, cafes and room for both swimming and sport.
Are Dubai's beaches free?
Most public beaches are free. Al Mamzar Beach Park charges a small entry fee, and hotel beaches are for guests or day-pass holders.
When is the sea warmest in Dubai?
The sea is warmest in summer, but the air is then extremely hot. November to March has the best weather for a beach day.
Can I wear a bikini on Dubai's beaches?
Yes, swimwear is normal on the beaches and at pools. Cover up when you leave the beach.